Carol Ann Miller

Carol Ann Miller (Bierschbach), age 66, of Houghton Lake, MI, entered into her eternal rest on January 4, 2024, surrounded by her loving husband, Ken Miller, and her supportive family at her home. She was born the youngest of three in West Branch, MI, on July 27, 1957, to Ida Poirier (McDowell) and Victor Bierschbach. On February 15, 2003, she married her faithful and loving husband, Ken Miller.

Carol is preceded in death by her father, Victor Bierschbach; mother, Ida Poirier; brother, Clifford Bierschbach; sister, Lois Brethauer (Bierschbach); brother-in-law, Cal Brethauer; and father-in-law, Kenneth Miller. She is survived by her loving husband of 20 years, Ken Miller, mother-in-law JoAnn Miller, of Findlay, OH, children Micaiah Filkins of Las Vegas, NV, Andrew (Holly) Filkins of Duluth, MN, Kenny (Iva) Miller of Alma, MI, Dawn (Ben) Wiles of West Branch, MI, Kathleen (Scott) Smith of West Branch, MI, and Martin Miller of Gladwin, MI, 16 grandchildren, her sisters Audrey (Willmer) Bajema, Cedar Springs, MI, Tanja (Brion) Kelly, Grand Haven, MI, Shelly (Kelly) Broyhill Modad, Holland, MI, Teena Bierschbach, Rochester, MI, Vicky (John) Sessoms - Camden, DE  and a large extended family. Their memories will forever be intertwined with hers as a testament to the enduring bonds of family.

A woman of unwavering faith, Carol's life was anchored in her relationship with Jesus Christ. In middle school she committed her life to Christ and remained steadfast throughout her life. She taught Sunday School, volunteered at Christian camps, sang special music and counseled with people in need. Her devotion to God was a guiding light that shaped her character and influenced the lives of those around her. Together with her beloved husband Ken, they hosted a home bible study, fostering spiritual growth and community among friends and family throughout their loving marriage. Through her ministry, she touched many lives, leaving a lasting legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to the teachings of Christ. 

Encouraged by her husband, Carol went back to school in the early 2000s to pursue her dream of becoming a licensed counselor. She graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in 2005 before obtaining her Master’s Degree in Counseling in 2008, both from Spring Arbor University. After diligently studying and passing her exams, Carol spent 15 years practicing counseling in the Houghton Lake and Roscommon area. She was especially passionate about working with young people using play therapy to connect with and help her clients. Her care and love were evident to the clients and co-workers who were lucky enough to know her. As part of her work and her passions, she served on the Roscommon Suicide Prevention Coalition for many years. She retired on January 1, 2024, her retirement was celebrated with her by her incredible colleagues who became her dear friends.  She was quite proud of her career as is her family. 

Carol was a master of crafts. Her talents extended to basket weaving, rug weaving, knitting, and seamstress work, showcasing her creativity and skill. She pursued diverse interests, earning both a motorcycle license and a concealed weapons permit, and traveling throughout the USA and abroad, reflecting her adventurous spirit and commitment to self-reliance.

A source of warmth and nourishment, Carol's love for baking was legendary. Her French bread, renowned throughout the Midwest, filled homes with a comforting aroma on a daily basis. She was quick to offer a recipe for her croissants, famous pot-luck dishes and other delicious food items she made. However, her famous chocolate chip cookie recipe was a closely guarded secret. Her culinary talents were a reflection of her generous spirit and a means by which she expressed her love for others.

In celebrating Carol Ann Miller's life, we honor the memories we shared and the profound impact she had on our lives and many we will never meet. Her legacy will live on through the lives she touched, the lessons she imparted, and the love she generously gave. May she rest in eternal peace, embraced by the loving arms of her Savior.

A celebration of her life and faith will be held at Houghton Lake Wesleyan Church, 5599 W Houghton Lake Dr, Houghton Lake, on January 12th, 2024 at 11am. There will be a reception to follow until 1:30 PM. 

In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to show their support and sympathies are invited to make an in-memory donation to one of her beloved charities: Oasis of Hope House (https://oasisofhopehouse.wixsite.com/website/donate-1), PreBorn (https://preborn.com/preborn-give/ ) or the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Roscommon (https://988lifeline.org/donate/ ).

Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.